Water leaks can occur from a variety of locations. The flashing around the chimney can often be an overlooked source of the water leak. We inspect and report to you the current condition of your chimney flashing as part of our standard NFPA level 1 inspection service. Sometime we encounter chimneys that have no flashing at all or have had numerous coatings of tar in failed attempts to fix water leaks. While numerous products are on the market, we have firsthand knowledge of the most effective products and repair techniques.
FlashSeal is a versatile flashing repair system that, when dry, forms a flexible waterproof membrane. It’s formulated for permanent adhesion to asphalt shingles, metal flashings, brick, and other chimney and roofing materials. FlashSeal solves leaks around the base of chimneys, stacks, and vents. It is also great for sealing around skylights. FlashSeal repairs create a custom fit rubber boot at the base of the chimney. It remains permanently flexible and has a 7 year warranty!

Video on FlashSeal Repair

For a more permanent 20-30 year repair or if you do not like the look or a rubber boot around the chimney, we recommend flashing the chimney with a 26 gauge metal flashing. Metal flashings hold up to the elements better and can be decorative in nature with patina copper, bright copper, stainless steel, aluminum, or painted galvanized metal options.
In a typical metal flashing repair we will strip away the existing flashing components, apply ice and water barrier, install a front base flashing along the bottom of the chimney, install side step flashings which step up the side of the chimney and then the back base flashing. (These are all components of the under flashing system). Next we cut a 1 in groove into the mortar joint and apply a top cap or over flashing to the entire system and reseal the system. In some situations it is necessary to install a custom made saddle to divert water shed away from larger chimney systems.